Values, Attitudes, and Social Concepts of Japanese and American Children

Abstract

The study utilizes the child as an informant to obtain insight into values, att's, & soc concepts of 2 cultures; Japan & the US. The topic essay is used as the device for gathering comparative data. The samples are classified by sex & age & divided into grade groups 1-to-4 & 5-to-8. The occup'al choices are then compared. US children are sophisticated & practical in discussion of careers in sci & engineering. Their orientation is toward self interest. The Japanese are interested in great humanitarian goals & inclined toward sci'fic hero worship. In Japan it is apparent that socialization pressures curb the inclinations to put personal pressure & satisfaction first. The US child in comparison makes an identification of personal pleasure & satisfaction with a great variety of roles. The Japanese child thinks of travel as an opportunity to learn. The US child, as an opportunity for teaching, or even responsibility. It is concluded that, while the Japanese appear to be in transition toward a US orientation, as compared to pre-WWII conditions they still are other-orientated, interest being toward family, community, & society as a whole. The US child on the other hand is preoccupied with war & national interest. J. Lee Bonham.